Training is where all of the preparation is completed for a game, therefore it is often said with good reason that "how you train, is how you play". With this mindset firmly entrenched, all training sessions should be treated as though it is a game, ensuring that the effort, intensity and concentration is always there.
The training tips mentioned will be based on the approach to a training session by an individual as opposed to the technical aspects.
Training Equipment (Personal)
To ensure that the training sessions are conducted in an optimal way, ensure that the correct and appropriate training equipment is used.
The following mentioned training equipment are suggestions:
Goalkeeping Gloves: Use similar, if not the same goalkeeping gloves as those used in games. This will ensure that there will be no difference to the ball handling conducted at training and that during a game.
Long/Padded Clothing: Wearing long pants and a long sleeved jumper during training sessions where diving is involved, will reduce the possibility of getting skin abrasions. Depending on the extent of the skin abrasions that could be received, it could take weeks for the abrasions to heel, this would also be dependant on whether training is continued not allowing time for the wounds to heal.
Water: A trivial as this sounds, always carry water with you nearby to training. This is for a number of reasons, hydration and refreshment, but also it will reduce the time taken to get water during training breaks reducing the time of the breaks in the sessions and provide more fluency.
Body Language and Positioning
Before, during and even after a training drill, always face the coach, "Never turn your back on the play".
Remain confident at all times during training. The training paddock is where mistakes are to be made and learnt from.
Ball Handling
Always attempt to catch the ball at all times unless specified by the coach. This will enhance the ball handling technique during the game. Having controlled possession during a game provides so many advantages:
Slows down the game during times where the team is under immense pressure in defense.
Allows the team to gain composure and formation.
Counter attacks can be created.
Confidence throughout the team is generated and increased when seeing the goalkeeper catching the ball and controlling their area.
Shot Stopping
Always attempt to save everything, even if it seems impossible. With practice this will ensure that the footwork is still working and anticipation of shots made on goal, therefore during the games the reflexes are conditioned for similar scenarios. In time what seems to be optimistic attempts in saving shots on goal, will turn out to be a save.
